Can tumors in a dog be treated?

A:

Quick Answer

Dog tumors can be treated, and the type of treatment largely depends on the type of tumor. There are three common types of tumors that affect dogs: fatty skin tumors also known as lipomas, benign (noncancerous) tumors and malignant tumors.

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Treatment options for a fatty skin tumor are surgical operation, holistic therapy, infiltration with calcium chloride and a change of diet. A veterinarian advices on the best treatment option after a thorough physical examination. Infiltrative lipomas may require scanning to understand location and mass of the tumor.

The health of the dog and the size of the tumor influence the decision to remove such a tumor surgically. Fatty tumors can be infiltrated with calcium chloride which is a caustic material. This treatment however, has potentially harmful side effects. Holistic approach and change of diet are used to boost the effect of a surgical operation.

Cancerous tumors, which have become common in dogs over 10 years, also have varying treatment options depending on the stage and type of cancer. Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy are common treatments. Early detection increases the chance of success in treatment therapies. If a dog owner opts for no treatment at all, he is advised on palliative care to ensure high quality of life for the dog.